I removed the radiator from my 73 coupe (454, A-C, PS, PB, automatic) to have it re-cored. This all started innocently enough with a search in the NCRS forums for advice on how to remove the radiator. I saw advice that suggested removing the upper control arm pivot would give the clearance necessary to remove the shroud. That did not work out so well. Perhaps the advice was meant for a car equipped with a 350 rather than a 454. Anyway, while trying to convince my fan shroud to come out, I broke it. So I have a used one on the way - not a big deal.
However, while I was trying to figure out how to remove the upper control arm pivot. I discovered that the studs are too long to allow the pivot to come off. The passenger side pivot hits the cylinder head (fuel pump too) on the rearward end and the fan shroud on the forward end. I tried hammering out the studs and could not get them to budge. I got an inspection mirror down there and discovered the UCA studs on my car are really hex bolts that have been welded in place. I dont know if this is someones idea of a repair or what happened.
While I was planning this whole thing, I figured I would buy a new bushing kit 'while I in there' and take care of them at the same time as the radiator. So here is my question. What should I do regarding the UCA mounting studs - should I try replacing them with shorter ones, and how should I go about re-installing my re-cored radiator? It looks to me like I have to remove the core support to do this without damaging the new radiator, but Im hoping there is another way.
Any advice is greatly appreciated.
However, while I was trying to figure out how to remove the upper control arm pivot. I discovered that the studs are too long to allow the pivot to come off. The passenger side pivot hits the cylinder head (fuel pump too) on the rearward end and the fan shroud on the forward end. I tried hammering out the studs and could not get them to budge. I got an inspection mirror down there and discovered the UCA studs on my car are really hex bolts that have been welded in place. I dont know if this is someones idea of a repair or what happened.
While I was planning this whole thing, I figured I would buy a new bushing kit 'while I in there' and take care of them at the same time as the radiator. So here is my question. What should I do regarding the UCA mounting studs - should I try replacing them with shorter ones, and how should I go about re-installing my re-cored radiator? It looks to me like I have to remove the core support to do this without damaging the new radiator, but Im hoping there is another way.
Any advice is greatly appreciated.
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